A New Kind of Third Space: Dena Grothe Brings Cork and Candles to Chattanooga
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After more than 35 years in healthcare, most of it spent in direct patient care, Dena Grothe was ready for a change. She had grown tired of feeling underappreciated, overworked, and lacking control over her own career — and she knew her next chapter needed to be something she could truly enjoy and feel passionate about.
Working with FranCoach coach Michael Grothe, Dena found that spark in Cork and Candles. During a visit to the brand’s stores in Philadelphia, she experienced the full “client experience” firsthand — interacting with other guests and soaking in the atmosphere — and knew instantly it was the right fit. The brand’s founders, Dave and Kenny Straub, hosted Dena for a memorable Meet the Team Day that sealed her enthusiasm for the next chapter of her career. Dena is opening the newest Cork and Candles territory in Chattanooga, TN.
“After speaking to Dena, learning her likes and dislikes, and the types of businesses that would be appealing to her, Cork and Candles was an obvious choice,” said Michael Grothe, Dena’s FranCoach coach. “From presenting the company to her, through a great discovery process and a fantastic Meet the Team Day with the founders, she knew this was for her and a great fit.”
Cork and Candles welcomed her with equal excitement: “Cork and Candles is more than a candle shop — it’s an experience. Think of it as a welcoming ‘third space’ where friends gather to laugh, create, celebrate, and connect. For many franchise owners, the decision to buy a business comes after a personal turning point. For Dena, after decades as a nurse, she realized she was ready for something different — something creative, people-centered, and truly her own.”
Dena’s move from decades of patient care to building community through Cork and Candles is proof that the right business can be a true second act. FranCoach is proud to have helped guide her there, and can’t wait to see Chattanooga fall in love with her new space.
